Emma McGrath wins first Lynsey de Paul Prize

Emma McGrath has been named the winner of the inaugural Lynsey de Paul Prize.

The 15-year-old singer/songwriter will receive a £2,000 talent bursary and mentorship. Hertfordshire-based McGrath (pictured) will also perform at the Lynsey de Paul – A Celebration event on September 10, at PRS for Music’s Kings Cross offices.

McGrath said: “I feel very grateful to have won such a fantastic prize and excited to know that the money will enable me to continue working on my next EP!

“Recording has already begun and it’s good to know that I will have the funds to finish it and promote it properly. I am particularly keen to access the mentorship and look forward to meeting new people and learning lots of new things.”

There were also three runners-up – Emma McGann (pop), Niomi O’Rourke (electronic) and Saachi Sen (indie/folk) will each receive a £500 talent development bursary.

The prize was set up in June to honour Lynsey de Paul, who passed away in 2014. She was the first female songwriter to win an Ivor Novello Award and composed 12 Top 20 hit records.